معرفی
Thomas Matta serves as Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at DePaul University's School of Music, directing the DePaul Jazz Ensemble and coordinating the Jazz Combo Program while specializing in Jazz Trombone instruction. His academic appointments include teaching Jazz Ensemble, Applied Trombone, Jazz Arranging, and Jazz Composition courses.
Educational background:
- Bachelor of Music, University of Minnesota - Duluth
- Master of Music, University of Northern Colorado
- Certificate in Performance, DePaul University
Matta maintains an active dual career as both performer and composer. His research interests manifest through extensive performance work across jazz, orchestral, and studio settings, alongside scholarly contributions to big band composition and arranging. Notable collaborations include:
- Count Basie Orchestra, Woody Herman Orchestra, Frank Mantooth Jazz Orchestra
- Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Aretha Franklin, Art Garfunkel
- Chicago Symphony-associated ensembles (Ravinia Festival Orchestra, Chicago Sinfonietta)
His compositional output features original works published by Kendor Music and Doug Beach Music, performed globally by ensembles including the Tom Matta Big Band—which released the critically acclaimed album 'Components' (2012) featuring seven original big band compositions. Professional recognition stems from consistent high-profile performance engagements and published scores adopted by jazz luminaries like Phil Woods and Jeff Hamilton.
Professor Matta integrates performance practice with pedagogy through the Jazz Studies program, mentoring students in ensemble performance, composition, and arranging while maintaining active professional connections across Chicago's music industry.
